What Are the Biggest Cities in Europe?
When people ask about the biggest cities in Europe, they usually mean cities with the largest population. But some may be thinking about land area instead. This guide focuses on population size, giving you the most up-to-date list based on 2025 estimates.
10 Biggest Cities in Europe by Population
| Rank | City | Country | Population (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Istanbul | Turkey | 15.9 million |
| 2 | Moscow | Russia | 12.6 million |
| 3 | London | United Kingdom | 9.8 million |
| 4 | Saint Petersburg | Russia | 5.4 million |
| 5 | Berlin | Germany | 3.8 million |
| 6 | Madrid | Spain | 3.3 million |
| 7 | Kyiv | Ukraine | 3.1 million |
| 8 | Rome | Italy | 2.8 million |
| 9 | Paris | France | 2.6 million |
| 10 | Bucharest | Romania | 1.8 million |
More About the Top 3
Istanbul
Though part of Istanbul lies in Asia, most of its population lives in the European side — making it Europe’s largest city.
Moscow
Russia’s capital is a political, cultural, and economic hub with a population of over 12 million.
London
The UK’s capital continues to grow rapidly and remains one of the most diverse cities in the world.
FAQ
Q1: Is Istanbul really in Europe?
Yes, part of Istanbul lies in Europe, and the majority of its residents live on the European side.
Q2: What’s the largest EU city?
Berlin is the largest city within the European Union by population.
Q3: Are these numbers for city proper or metro area?
This list is based on city proper populations, not greater metro regions.
Q4: Which city has grown the fastest in recent years?
London and Istanbul have seen significant growth due to migration and economic expansion.
Final Thoughts
Europe is home to some of the world’s most historic and populated cities. Whether you’re planning a trip, doing research, or just curious, knowing the biggest cities in Europe gives you a better picture of the continent’s urban landscape.
If you’re looking for cities by area size, metro region, or even GDP, stay tuned — we’ll cover those in upcoming posts.